Device and Method For Manipulating Intervertebral Tissue

ABSTRACT

A system and method for manipulating intervertebral tissue in one embodiment includes a conduit, a segmented expansion media configured to pass through the conduit, and an expandable node comprising a plurality of abrading strands and operably connected to the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit so as to receive the segmented expansion media therein, the expandable node expandable from a first condition whereat the plurality of abrading strands define at least one opening having a first maximum diameter, to an expanded condition whereat the at least one opening has a second maximum diameter larger than the first maximum diameter, wherein the second maximum diameter is less than a minimum diameter of the segmented expansion media, such that insertion of the segmented expansion media through the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit and into the expandable node causes the expandable node to expand from the first condition to the expanded condition.

This application is a continuation of co-pending application Ser. No. 13/411,706, filed on Mar. 5, 2012, which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 11/581,668, filed on Oct. 16, 2006 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,137,352), the disclosures of which are hereby totally incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to surgical devices and, more particularly, to devices used to loosen tissue for removal in a surgical patient.

BACKGROUND

The spinal column acts as a major structural support. Various mechanisms, however, affect the ability of intervertebral disks to provide the requisite stability and support. For example, the normal aging process tends to weaken the bones and tissues associated with the spinal column increasing the risk of spinal injuries. Additionally, sudden movements may cause a disk to rupture or herniate. A herniation of the disk is primarily a problem when the nucleus pulposus protrudes or ruptures into the spinal canal placing pressure on nerves which in turn causes spasms, tingling, numbness, and/or pain in one or more parts of the body, depending on the nerves involved. Further deterioration of the disk can cause the damaged disk to lose height and to produce bone spurs. These mechanisms may result in a narrowing of the spinal canal and foramen, thereby causing undesired pressure on the nerves emanating from the spinal cord.

Treatments of spinal cord conditions include various procedures which involve the removal of all or a portion of a spinal component. Such procedures may include the injection of an enzyme into an affected disk to dissolve tissues. The enzymes typically used in this procedure are protein-digesting enzymes which must be carefully placed with respect to the spinal defect to avoid inadvertent dissolution of spinal tissue.

Alternatively, surgical access to a spinal area may be obtained and a tool such as a curette, osteotome, reamer, rasp, or drill may be used to mechanically reshape a component of the spinal column. The tissue removed may include disk tissue which is causing pressure on a nerve or the spinal canal. This technique is highly invasive and traumatic to the body, and therefore requires an extended recovery period. Moreover, there are increased risks of future problems due to the removal of a portion of the lamina which is no longer in place to support and protect the spinal canal at the area where the surgery took place.

Surgical access may also be used for spinal fusion surgery. In a fusion procedure, a damaged disk may be completely removed. Parts of a bone from another part of the patient's body, such as the pelvis, are harvested, and the bone parts or grafts are subsequently placed between the adjacent vertebrae so that the adjacent vertebrae grow together in a solid mass. The recovery time for a normal spinal fusion surgery is significant due not only to the fact that normal movement cannot be allowed until detectable bone growth has occurred between the bone grafts and the adjacent vertebrae, but also due to the fact that the associated ligaments and muscles, both at the spinal location and the location where the bone grafts were harvested, must also recover.

Recently, efforts have been directed to replacing defective spinal column components. When this type of procedure is performed in a minimally invasive manner, it is known for various devices implanted during the procedure to be subsequently expelled from the intervertebral disks. This expulsion is frequently attributed to inadequate clearance of the nucleus during the minimally invasive surgical procedure. The result is that the interdiskal device extrudes from the cavity formed in the spinal column, increasing the potential for expulsion.

A need exists for a device for loosening tissue that is minimally invasive, easy to use, and safe. A further need exists for a device that may be used to loosen tissue associated with an area of the spinal column. Additionally, a device which can create a relatively large cavity through a small entry point is needed. A further need exists for a device which provides for both the loosening of tissue and the removal of loosened tissue.

SUMMARY

A system and method for manipulating intervertebral tissue in one embodiment includes an intervertebral tissue removal system conduit, a segmented expansion media configured to pass through the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit, and an expandable node comprising a plurality of abrading strands and operably connected to the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit so as to receive the segmented expansion media therein, the expandable node expandable from a first condition whereat the plurality of abrading strands define at least one opening having a first maximum diameter, to an expanded condition whereat the at least one opening has a second maximum diameter larger than the first maximum diameter, wherein the second maximum diameter is less than a minimum diameter of the segmented expansion media, such that insertion of the segmented expansion media through the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit and into the expandable node causes the expandable node to expand from the first condition to the expanded condition.

In one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of abrading strands define a generally rectangular cross-section.

In one or more embodiments each of the plurality of abrading strands define a generally triangular cross-section.

In one or more embodiments the plurality of abrading strands are formed in a net-like pattern.

In one or more embodiments the plurality of abrading strands are woven into the net-like pattern.

In one or more embodiments the net-like pattern includes at least one junction of at least two of the plurality of abrading strands, and each of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands is adhered to the other of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands at the at least one junction.

In one or more embodiments a system includes a ribbing member positioned radially outwardly of the plurality of abrading strands when the plurality of abrading strands is in the first condition, the ribbing member defining a plurality of openings through which portions of the plurality of abrading strands extend when the plurality of abrading strands is in the expanded condition.

In one or more embodiments the plurality of abrading strands are fixedly attached to the ribbing member.

In one or more embodiments the expandable node includes a first end portion operably connected to the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit, and a second end portion operably connected to a proximal portion of a tip member.

In one or more embodiments the tip member includes a plurality of cutting edges extending axially from a distal portion of the tip member to the proximal portion of the tip member.

In one or more embodiments the tip member includes at least one aspiration supply orifice in fluid communication with an aspiration supply conduit extending within the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit.

In one or more embodiments a method of removing intervertebral tissue includes inserting at least one abrading member for abrading tissue into an area to be cleared, an intervertebral tissue removal system conduit, inserting a segmented expansion media through an intervertebral tissue removal system conduit into an expandable node including a plurality of abrading strands, forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands, thereby expanding the expandable node from a first condition whereat the plurality of abrading strands define at least one opening having a first maximum diameter, to an expanded condition whereat the at least one opening has a second maximum diameter larger than the first maximum diameter, wherein the second maximum diameter is less than a minimum diameter of the segmented expansion media. The method further includes abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with the expanded expandable node, and removing the abraded tissue from the area to be cleared.

In one or more embodiments abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with the expanded expandable node includes abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with corner portions of the plurality of abrading strands.

In one or more embodiments forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands includes forcing the segmented expansion media against a plurality of abrading strands formed in a net-like pattern.

In one or more embodiments forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands includes forcing the segmented expansion media against a plurality of abrading strands formed in a net-like pattern including at least one junction of at least two of the plurality of abrading strands, wherein each of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands is adhered to the other of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands at the at least one junction.

In one or more embodiments forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands includes forcing portions of the plurality of abrading strands radially outwardly through a plurality of openings in a ribbing member.

In one or more embodiments inserting at least one abrading member includes inserting a tip member having a proximal portion operably connected to an end portion of the expandable node into the area to be cleared.

In one or more embodiments a method includes abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with a plurality of cutting edges extending axially from a distal portion of the tip member to the proximal portion of the tip member.

In one or more embodiments a method includes aspirating the area to be cleared with aspiration fluid provided through at least one aspiration supply orifice in the tip member which is in fluid communication with an aspiration supply conduit extending within the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit.

The above-described features and advantages, as well as others, will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reference to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an intervertebral tissue removal system with a single abrading member on a node of an expandable member wherein aspiration fluid is fed into an expansion media conduit through an inlet on a cannula to provide expansion media incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the flow path of aspiration fluid through the cannula, conduit and expandable member of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cannula of FIG. 1 after puncturing a disc with the cannula in preparation for forming a cavity within the disc;

FIG. 4 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cannula of FIG. 3 with the conduit and expandable member inserted within the cannula while the expandable member is in a deflated condition;

FIG. 5 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the expandable member of FIG. 1 indicating the flow path of expansion media through the expandable member when the pressure required to force the same amount of expansion media introduced into the expandable member out of the expandable member through an orifice is less than the pressure required to expand the node and the abrading member is in a first position;

FIG. 6 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the expandable member of FIG. 1 indicating the flow path of expansion media through the expandable member when the pressure required to force the same amount of expansion media introduced into the expandable member out of the expandable member through an orifice is greater than the pressure required to expand the node such that the node flexes forcing the abrading member into a second position;

FIG. 7 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the expandable member of FIG. 1 indicating the flow path of expansion media through the expandable member when the pressure required to force the same amount of expansion media introduced into the expandable member out of the expandable member through an orifice is greater than the pressure required to expand the node to the condition shown in FIG. 6 such that the node further flexes forcing the abrading member into a third position;

FIG. 8 shows a schematic view of an alternative intervertebral tissue removal system with a number of abrading members on a node of an expandable member wherein aspiration fluid is fed into an expansion media conduit through an inlet on a cannula to provide expansion media incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the expandable member and abrading members of FIG. 8 in a deflated condition;

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the expandable member and abrading members of FIG. 8 in an expanded condition wherein tissue may be loosened to form a cavity having a diameter greater than the diameter of the cannula of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 shows a partial cross-sectional view of an alternative intervertebral tissue removal system wherein an aspiration fluid conduit and drainage conduit are provided to a cavity through a cannula separate from the expansion media conduit incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 12 shows a partial plan view of an alternative embodiment of an expandable member in an unexpanded condition which includes multiple nodes, each node operably connected to two abrading members incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 13 shows a partial plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 12 in an expanded condition such that the abrading members are positioned to loosen tissue on two sides of the expandable member;

FIG. 14 shows a partial side plan view of an alternative embodiment of an expandable member in an expanded condition which includes a single node configured to provide a conical cavity that is enlarged away from the point of entry of the expandable member into a tissue space when used with an abrading member incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 15 shows a front plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 shows a partial side plan view of an alternative embodiment of an expandable member in an expanded condition which includes a single node configured to provide a conical cavity that is enlarged near the point of entry of the expandable member into a tissue space when used with an abrading member incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 17 shows a front plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 shows a partial side plan view of an alternative embodiment of an expandable member in an expanded condition which includes a two nodes which are symmetrical to each other and symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the expandable member incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 19 shows a front plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 shows a partial side plan view of an alternative embodiment of an expandable member in an expanded condition which includes a two nodes which are symmetrical to each other and symmetrical along the longitudinal axis of the expandable member incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 21 shows a front plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 shows a side plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 20 with abrading members coupled to the nodes incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 23 shows a schematic view of an intervertebral tissue removal system with multiple abrading members on multiple nodes of an expandable member wherein expansion media is provided to each of the nodes from a first and a second syringe, respectively, and two drainage orifices are located between the nodes to provide for drainage of separately provided aspiration fluid and loosened tissue incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 24 shows a partial plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 23 with the nodes expanded to loosen tissue between the two sets of abrading members;

FIG. 25 shows a partial plan view of an alternative expandable member with abrading members configured on two nodes to loosen tissue outwardly of the abrading members incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 26 shows a schematic view of an intervertebral tissue removal system that is similar to the intervertebral tissue removal system of FIG. 23, but with a different configuration of abrading members to provide cavities of different shapes incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 27 shows a partial plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 26 with the node farthest away from the entry point of the expandable member into a tissue space expanded to loosen tissue to form a conical cavity that is enlarged away from the point of entry of the expandable member into a tissue space;

FIG. 28 shows a partial plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 26 with both nodes expanded to loosen tissue to form a cylindrical cavity;

FIG. 29 shows a partial plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 26 with the node nearest the entry point of the expandable member into a tissue space expanded to loosen tissue to form a conical cavity that is enlarged closer to the point of entry of the expandable member into a tissue space;

FIG. 30 shows an expansion media in the form of elongated segments that are inter connected incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 31 shows a partial schematic view of an intervertebral tissue removal system which can be used with the segmented expansion media of FIG. 30 incorporating principles of the present invention;

FIG. 32 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a partial cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 31 with segmented expansion media within the expandable member prior to deformation of the expandable member;

FIG. 34 a partial cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 31 with segmented expansion media expanding the node of the expandable member;

FIG. 35 shows a cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 31 after the non-resilient node has been deformed with segmented media and after the segmented media has been withdrawn;

FIG. 36 shows a cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 35 with the deformed node partially compressed as the expandable member is pulled into the cannula;

FIG. 37 shows a partial plan view of an alternative expandable member with a node that includes a number of strands wherein the strands provide the abrading members in accordance with principles of the present invention;

FIG. 38 shows a partial perspective view of the node of the expandable member of FIG. 37 in a fully expanded condition with openings between the strands;

FIG. 39 shows a partial plan view of the node of the expandable member of FIG. 37 in a fully expanded condition with openings between the strands;

FIG. 40 shows a partial plan view of the node of the expandable member of FIG. 37 expanded by a generally spherical expansion media which is sized to not fit through the openings between the strands;

FIG. 41 shows a plan view of an alternative expandable member with a node that includes a number of strands and support ribbing to divide the node into a plurality of shaped nodes which can be used without a cannula in accordance with principles of the present invention;

FIG. 42 shows a plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 41 in an expanded condition;

FIG. 43 shows a plan view of an alternative expandable member with a guide rod that extends within a flexible expansion conduit in accordance with principles of the present invention; and

FIG. 44 shows a plan view of the expandable member of FIG. 43 with the guide rod bent and the node in an expanded condition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts an intervertebral tissue removal system 100 which includes a fluid reservoir 102, a cannula 104 and an expandable member 106. The fluid reservoir 102 is in fluid connection with the cannula 104 through a tube 108 which is connected to a fluid inlet 110. In this embodiment, the fluid reservoir 102 is configured to provide a liquid in the form of saline solution under pressure to the fluid inlet 110. The fluid may be pressurized in a number of acceptable ways such as using a gas to pressurize the fluid reservoir 102 or a pump that takes suction from the fluid reservoir 102. In alternative embodiments, the fluid may be in the form of a gas. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, however, the fluid is preferably a liquid.

An outlet port 112 is located on the cannula 104. The outlet port 112 is in fluid connection with a drain 114 through a tube 116. In alternative embodiments, the drain 114 may be replaced with a vacuum collection system so as to provide a suction source for the cannula 104 through the outlet port 112.

The expandable member 106 is connected to a conduit 118 which extends into an internal bore 120 of the cannula 104 as best seen in FIG. 2. The expandable member 106 may be formed integrally with the conduit 118. Alternatively, the expandable member 106 may be removably coupled to the conduit 118 to allow for the use of different expandable members with the intervertebral tissue removal system 100.

Continuing with FIG. 2, the conduit 118 is in fluid connection with the fluid inlet 110 through an inlet port 122. A coupling section 124 couples the conduit 118 to a motor section 126. The motor section 126 provides motive force which is passed to the expandable member 106 through the conduit 118 and the coupling section 124. The motive force may be translational, rotational, reciprocating or oscillatory. Additionally, the motive force may be provided by motors of various types or even manually.

Regardless of the type of motion desired, the interface between the source of the motive force and the other components of the system 100, such as the conduit 118 and the cannula 104, may be designed to account for relative motion between the various components as is known to those of ordinary skill in the appropriate art. By way of example, the motor 124 in this embodiment causes the conduit 118 to reciprocate within the cannula 104. Accordingly, in addition to components such as bearings (not shown) and seals (not shown), the inlet port 122 is elongated to provide for fluid connection with the fluid inlet 110 as the conduit 118 reciprocates. Alternatively, the fluid may be provided directly to the conduit 118 without passing through the wall of the cannula 104.

The expandable member 106 includes a housing 128 with a node 130 and an orifice 132. The node 130 is sealingly attached to the housing 128 about the periphery of the node 130. The node 130 is further made of a material which is more compliant than the material used to form the housing 128. An abrading member 134 is attached to the housing 128 and extends along a portion of the node 130. A hinge 136 is provided in the abrading member 134.

Operation of the intervertebral tissue removal system 100 is described with initial reference to FIG. 3. After the surgical site is prepared in an acceptable manner, the cannula 104 is used to puncture a disc 138. The conduit 118 and expandable member 106 are then inserted into the cannula 104 with the expandable member in an unexpanded condition as shown in FIG. 4. The insertion of the conduit 118 into the cannula 104 may be guided. For example, a slot and key arrangement may be used to ensure that the conduit 118 is properly aligned within the cannula 104. Once the conduit 118 has been inserted to the appropriate depth, the conduit 118 is rotated into the position shown in FIG. 2 such that the inlet port 122 is in fluid connection with the fluid inlet 110.

The desired fluid supply is then connected to the fluid inlet port 110 and the outlet port 112 is directed to a drain or a vacuum device, resulting in the configuration of FIG. 1. Specifically, the tube 108 is used to connect the fluid reservoir 102 to the fluid inlet 110 and the tube 116 is used to connect the outlet port 112 to the drain 114. Of course, the foregoing steps may be accomplished in a number of alternative variations. For example, the fluid supply and drain tubes may be connected prior to insertion of the conduit 118 within the cannula 104. Additionally, the conduit 118 may be inserted within the cannula 104 prior to puncturing the disc 138. This may be particularly desirable when the expandable member is in a bore or drill configuration. Thus, the expandable member may be used in puncturing the disc.

Once the expandable member 106 is positioned in the desired manner within the disc 138, pressurized fluid is introduced into the conduit 118. This may be accomplished by pressurizing the fluid reservoir 102 such that pressurized fluid is directed through the tube 108 and the fluid inlet 110 into the conduit 118 by way of the inlet port 122. This flow is indicated by the single arrows in FIG. 2. As the fluid flows into the expandable member 106, the abrading member 134 is initially in the condition shown in FIG. 5.

Some of the fluid exits the expandable member 106 through the orifice 132. The orifice 132 is sized, however, to restrict the flow of fluid out of the expandable member 106. Accordingly, when pressure is initially applied to the fluid from the fluid reservoir 102, more fluid flows into the expandable member 106 than is allowed to flow out of the orifice 132. This results in increased pressure within the expandable member 106. As the pressure within the expandable member 106 increases, more fluid is forced through the orifice 132. Thus, by controlling the pressure of the fluid introduced into the conduit 118, the pressure within the expandable member 106 and thus the amount of fluid exiting the expandable member 106 through the orifice 132 may be controlled.

Moreover, because the node 130 is made from a material that is more resilient than the housing 128, the node 130 may be made to deform or flex by increasing the pressure within the expandable member 106. Accordingly, as the pressure within the expandable member 106 increases, the node 130 flexes outwardly against the abrading member 134. The hinge 136 of the abrading member 134 is constructed to bend as the pressure exerted by the node 130 on the abrading member 134 increases. Thus, the abrading member 134 is rotated from the position shown in FIG. 5 to the position shown in FIG. 6 as the volume of the expandable member increases. At this higher pressure, more water is forced through the orifice 132 as indicated by the double arrows in FIG. 6.

Once the abrading member 134 is in the position shown in FIG. 6, the abrading member 134 may be used to loosen tissue by moving the expandable member 106 to the right as viewed in FIG. 6. As the abrading member 134 scrapes tissue, the loosened tissue is flushed by the fluid exiting the orifice 132 toward the internal bore 120 of the cannula 104. Accordingly, the loosened tissue is directed out of the disc 138, down the internal bore 120 to the outlet port 112 as indicated by the double arrows in FIG. 2. The fluid and the excised tissue then pass through the tube 116 to the drain 114.

Thus, the expandable member 106 is used to create a cavity within the disc 138 that is larger than the diameter of the cannula 104 which is used to access the disc 138. The expandable member 106 may be used to create an even larger cavity. By way of example, further increases in the pressure of the fluid within the expandable member 106 results in additional flexing of the node 130 outwardly against the abrading member 134 as the volume of the expandable member further increases. Thus, the abrading member 134 is further rotated from the position shown in FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 7. At this higher pressure, more water is forced through the orifice 132 as indicated by the triple arrows in FIG. 7.

Once the abrading member 134 is in the position shown in FIG. 7, the abrading member 134 may be used to loosen additional tissue by moving the expandable member 106 to the right as viewed in FIG. 7. As the abrading member 134 loosens additional tissue, the additional tissue is flushed by the fluid exiting the orifice 132 toward the internal bore 120 of the cannula 104. Accordingly, the additional tissue is directed out of the disc 138, down the internal bore 120 to the outlet port 112 as indicated by the double arrows in FIG. 2. The fluid and the additional tissue then pass through the tube 116 to the drain 114.

Accordingly, the expandable member 106 may be controlled to provide cavities having a number of different sizes merely by controlling the pressure within the expandable member 106. In one embodiment, one or more of the expandable member 106, the abrading member 134 and the conduit 118 may be constructed with a radiopaque material to enhance the detection of the position of the tissue removal system components. This allows for more precise determination of tissue clearance.

Once the desired tissue has been removed, the pressure applied to the fluid from the fluid reservoir 102 is reduced. Accordingly, less fluid flows into the expandable member 106 which results in decreased pressure within the expandable member 106. As the pressure within the expandable member 106 decreases, less fluid is forced through the orifice 132. Additionally, because the material used to construct the node 134 is resilient, as the pressure within the expandable member 106 decreases, the node 130 tends to return toward the condition depicted in FIG. 5 thereby reducing the volume of the expandable member. Additionally, the hinge 136 may be constructed of a shape retaining material. Thus, as the node 130 moves in a direction away from the abrading member 134, the hinge 136 provides rotational force to the abrading member 134 such that the abrading member is rotated, for example, from the position shown in FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 7. The expandable member 106 may then be removed from the disc 138 by withdrawing the conduit 118 from the cannula 104.

In an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 8-10, an intervertebral tissue removal system 140 includes a conduit 142 fluidly connected to an expandable member 144. A fluid reservoir 146 is connected to the conduit 142 through a tube 148 and abrasive particles 150 are adhered to the expandable member 144. The conduit 142 and the expandable member 144 are sized such that when the expandable member 144 is in the condition shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the conduit 142 and the expandable member 144 fit within the cannula 104. In this embodiment, the conduit 142 and the expandable member 144 are not permeable to the fluid within the fluid reservoir 146. Accordingly, the fluid reservoir 146 is not used to provide aspiration fluid.

In operation, as pressurized media is introduced into the expandable member 144, the abrasive particles 150 are forced outwardly away from the longitudinal axis of the expandable member 144 to the position shown in FIG. 10. In this embodiment, the pressure inside of the expandable member 144 is maintained by the fluid reservoir 146 at a constant pressure that is greater than the pressure needed to expand the expandable member 144. The increased pressure forces the abrasive particles 150 against the tissue surrounding the expandable member 144. Accordingly, as the expandable member 144 is moved, the abrasive material 150 may be used to loosen tissue completely about the perimeter of the expandable member 144. Moreover, the increased pressure within the expandable member 144 causes the abrasive particles 150 to be constantly forced against the tissue adjacent to the expandable member 144 even as tissue is loosened. Thus, tissue is constantly being loosened so long as the expandable member 144 is being moved.

As set forth above, the fluid within the fluid reservoir 146 is not used to aspirate the cavity formed by the expandable member 144. Thus, in accordance with one method, the expandable member 144 is deflated and removed periodically to allow for an aspiration fluid to be introduced into the cavity to assist in removal of loosened tissue. This staged aspiration may be performed a number of times during a particular surgery.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 11, a dedicated aspiration tube 152 may be introduced into the cavity through the cannula 104 along with a drain tube 154 to provide for continuous aspiration of the cavity. Specifically, an aspiration fluid is provided through the aspiration tube 152 to the cavity and the aspiration fluid and any loosened tissue is removed through the drain tube 154.

A number of different types of expandable members maybe used in accordance with the present invention. By way of example, FIG. 12 shows an expandable member 156. The expandable member 156 is formed and operated in a manner substantially similar to the expandable member 106. The main differences are that the expandable member 156 includes a number of nodes 158 which are in fluid connection through an inter-nodal conduit (not shown), and each of the nodes 158 is operably connected to two abrading members 160. Thus, when the nodes 158 are expanded as shown in FIG. 13, the abrading members 160 may be used to loosen tissue on opposite sides of the expandable member 156.

FIGS. 14-21 depict some alternative embodiments of expandable members in an expanded condition. The expandable member 162 shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 includes a node 164 which is symmetrical about the longitudinal axis 166 of the expandable member 162 but which is not symmetrical along the longitudinal axis 166. With reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, the expandable member 168 includes a node 170 which is symmetrical about the longitudinal axis 172 of the expandable member 168 but which is not symmetrical along the longitudinal axis 172.

The expandable member 174 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 includes a node 176 and a node 178 which are symmetrical both to each other and about the longitudinal axis 180 of the expandable member 174. With reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, the expandable member 182 includes a node 184 and a node 186 which are symmetrical to each other but which are not symmetrical along the longitudinal axis 188 of the expandable member 182. The nodes 184 and 186 thus define flutes extending along the expandable member 182.

Various types of abrading members may be combined with the expandable members described above as well as other expandable members to provide a variety of abrading capabilities. By way of example, FIG. 22 shows the expandable member 182 of FIG. 17 with an abrading member 190 on the node 184 and an abrading member 192 on the node 186. In the embodiment of FIG. 22, the abrading members 190 and 192 are blades having cutting edges 194 and 196 that extend along a substantial portion of the length of the abrading members 190 and 192, respectively. Alternatively, the abrading members may comprise abrasive particles adhered to the nodes 184 and 186. Additionally, the abrading members 190 and 192 may be serrated, providing a number of chisel like projections along the nodes 184 and 186.

Moreover, abrading members may be coupled to expandable members in a variety of ways to provide different abrading characteristics. By way of example, the intervertebral tissue removal system 200 shown in FIG. 23 includes two fluid reservoirs 202 and 204, a cannula 206 and an expandable member 208. The expandable member 208 includes nodes 210 and 212. The fluid reservoirs 202 and 204, which in this embodiment are syringes, are in fluid communication with the nodes 210 and 212, respectively, through tubes 214 and 216. Two valves 218 and 220 are provided along the tubes 214 and 216 which are conduits providing expansion media to the nodes 210 and 212. Each of the nodes 210 and 212 is configured to control a set of abrading members 222 and 224, respectively.

The intervertebral tissue removal system 200 further includes an aspiration fluid supply 226. An aspiration orifice 228 and an aspiration orifice 230 are in fluid connection through an aspiration conduit 232 with a collection container 234.

In operation, either of the nodes 210 and 212 may be expanded or both may be expanded, depending upon the cavity to be formed. For purposes of the present example, both nodes 210 and 212 are to be filled. Accordingly, after the expandable member 208 is positioned within a space to be abraded, the valves 218 and 220 are placed in the open position. The syringes 202 and 204 are then manipulated to force fluid from syringes 202 and 204 to the nodes 210 and 212, respectively, through the tubes 214 and 216, respectively. When the nodes 210 and 212 have been expanded such that the abrading members 222 and 224 are at the desired orientation, the valves 218 and 220 are placed in the shut position to maintain the abrading members 222 and 224 at the desired orientation.

Accordingly, when the nodes 210 and 212 are expanded, the abrading members 222 and 224 face each other. Thus, as the expandable member 208 moves to the right as viewed in FIG. 24, the set of abrading members 222 will loosen tissue contacting the abrading members 222 while the set of abrading members 224 will not loosen tissue contacting the abrading members 224. As the expandable member 208 moves to the left as viewed in FIG. 24, however, the set of abrading members 224 will loosen tissue contacting the abrading members 224 while the set of abrading members 222 will not loosen tissue contacting the abrading members 222. Thus, a cavity may be formed in the area between two abrading members using the intervertebral tissue removal system 200. Advantageously, the aspiration orifices 228 and 230 are located between the abrading members 222 and 224. Thus, the movement of the abrading members 222 and 224 direct loosened tissue toward the aspiration orifices 228 and 230.

Alternatively, the intervertebral tissue removal system shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 may be used to form a cavity which extends in a leftward direction from the abrading member 160. In yet a further alternative embodiment, a cavity may be formed which extends in both the leftward and rightward directions. With reference to FIG. 25, the expandable member 236 includes nodes 238 and 240 which are configured to control a set of abrading members 242 and 244, respectively. When the nodes 238 and 240 are expanded as shown in FIG. 25, a cavity may be formed which extends outwardly in both the leftward and rightward directions from the abrading members 242 and 244. Therefore, the configuration of the abrading members can be selected to provide various abrading capabilities.

In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 26, a single intervertebral tissue removal system 250 provides the ability to form cavities of different shapes. The intervertebral tissue removal system 250 includes two fluid reservoirs 252 and 254, a cannula 256 and an expandable member 258. The expandable member 258 includes nodes 260 and 262. The fluid reservoirs 252 and 254 are in fluid communication with the nodes 260 and 262, respectively, through tubes 264 and 266. Two valves 268 and 270 are provided along the tubes 264 and 266. Abrading members 272 are attached to each of the nodes 260 and 262.

Operation of the intervertebral tissue removal system 250 is substantially the same as operation of the intervertebral tissue removal system 200. The main difference is the shape of a cavity formed by selective filling of the nodes 260 and 262. Filling only node 260 provides the configuration shown in FIG. 27 which may be used to form a conical cavity which is enlarged in the direction away from the entry point of the node 260 into the tissue. The additional inflation of the node 262 results in the configuration shown in FIG. 28 which may be used to form a cylindrical cavity. Finally, filling only the node 262 provides the configuration shown in FIG. 29 which may be used to form a conical cavity which is oriented opposite to the conical cavity of FIG. 27.

In an alternative embodiment, segmented expansion media 276 shown in FIG. 30 is used to expand an expandable member. The segmented expansion media 276 includes a number of elongated segments 278 which are linked by connectors 280. Alternatively, the segments may be interconnected by a single connector which extends through each of the segments with the segments allowed to slide along the connector.

Operation of a system incorporating the elongated segmented expansion media 276 is explained with reference to FIGS. 31-36. Expandable member 282 is sized to be inserted through a cannula 284 and includes a node 286. An abrading member (not shown) may be adhered to the node 286. Initially, the expandable member 282 is inserted through the cannula 284 in a deflated condition. A tool (not shown) is then used to insert the elongated segments 278 into the expandable member 282 until the node 286 is full as shown in FIG. 33. The node 286 is formed from a deformable material. Thus, continued insertion of the segmented expansion media 276 into the node 286 as shown in FIG. 34 causes the node 286 to be expanded to an enlarged condition.

After the expandable member 282 has been manipulated to form a cavity, the segmented expansion media 276 is removed. The material used to form the node 286 in this embodiment is not resilient. Thus, as shown in FIG. 35, the node 286 remains in an expanded condition after the segmented expansion media 276 has been removed. Without the internal support provided by the segmented expansion media 276, however, the node 286 may be collapsed by forcing the node 286 against the lip of the cannula 284 as shown in FIG. 36.

FIG. 37 shows an alternative expandable member 290 that includes a node 292 including a plurality of strands 294. With reference to FIGS. 38 and 39, which show an expanded portion of the expandable member 290, the node 292 is formed in a net-like pattern. Thus, the strands 294 define a number of openings 296. The openings 296 may be formed in a number of ways. For example, portions of a metal plate may be removed, leaving a pattern of openings defined by the remaining metal. Alternatively, individual wires may be woven into a basket and some or all of the wire junctions may be soldered. Moreover, the openings may be configured to form shapes other than rectangular shapes. The salient characteristic in this embodiment is that the openings 296, even when the node 292 is fully expanded, must be smaller than at least some of the media used to expand the expandable member 290.

By way of example, FIG. 40 depicts a portion of the node 292 which has been expanded using a segmented expansion media 298. The segmented expansion media 298 is generally spherical. The diameter of the individual segments of the segmented expansion media 298 is selected such that the segmented expansion media 298 cannot pass through the openings 296. Thus, as the segmented expansion media 298 is forced into the expandable member 290, the node 292 is forced into an expanded condition. In this embodiment, the segmented expansion media 298 is not inter-connected.

The use of segmented expansion media further allows for the passage of fluid through the same conduit used to introduce the segmented media. As shown most clearly in FIG. 40, even when the segmented expansion media 298 is tightly packed, interstitial spaces 300 provide a pathway for fluid through the segmented expansion media 298. When the interstitial spaces 300 are significantly larger than the loosened pieces of tissue formed by abrading a cavity, the interstitial spaces 300 may be used to drain aspiration fluid and loosened tissue. In one such embodiment, the curvature of the segmented media is selected such that the segmented media cannot extend outside of the cutting envelope defined by the outer surface of the strands 294.

As the pieces of loosened tissue approach the size of the interstitial spaces 300, however, the segmented expansion media 298 may function as a filter. Thus, as tissue is abraded, the interstitial spaces 300 may clog with the loosened tissue. When the interstitial spaces 300 clog with the loosened tissue, the expandable member 290 may be removed and the interstitial spaces 300 flushed to remove the loosened tissue. Alternatively, the interstitial spaces 300 may be used as conduits to provide aspirating fluid to the tissue cavity, with drainage of the aspiration fluid and loosened tissue provided through a separate conduit.

In the embodiment of FIG. 38, the strands 294 of the node 292 have a generally rectangular cross-section. Thus, the corners of the strands 94 function as abrading members that loosen tissue as the expandable member 290 is manipulated within, for example, a disc. In alternative embodiments, the strands may be other shapes such as circular or triangular (e.g. wedge wire). Additionally, the orientation of the strands may be modified to present different cutting angles to the tissue to be loosened as the expandable member is manipulated to clear a cavity.

Additionally, the node may be configured to provide different shapes. For example, the expandable tool 302 shown in FIG. 41 includes a node 304 with strands 306. Ribbing 308 is provided about the strands 306. The strands 306 are coupled to a conduit 310 at one end and to a tip 312 at the other end. The ribbing 308 is constructed of a material that is more rigid than the strands 306. Thus, when the node 304 is expanded, the ribbing 308 constrains the strands 306 resulting in the shape shown in FIG. 42. The ribbing 308 thus functions to divide the node 304 into a plurality of nodes of different shapes. In this embodiment, the strands 306 are not fixedly attached to the ribbing 308. In alternative embodiments, the strands may be coupled to the ribbing. In further alternative embodiments, the ribbing is provided integrally with the conduit and the node is attached to the outer surface of the ribbing.

The tip 312 in this embodiment is further configured to provide access to an area in which tissue is to be loosened. The tip 312 includes a plurality of cutting edges 314 which define flutes 316. The cutting edges 314 loosen tissue when the expandable tool 302 is rotated so as to allow the forward movement of the expandable tool 302 into the area in which tissue is to be removed. The tip 312 further includes aspiration supply orifices 318. The aspiration supply orifices 318 provide aspiration fluid from an aspiration fluid supply conduit (not shown) within the conduit 310. The aspiration fluid and loosened tissue may then removed through the openings between the strands 306 and the interstitial spaces between the expansion media in a manner similar to that discussed above with respect to FIG. 40.

In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 43, an intervertebral tissue removal system 320 includes a cannula 322, a conduit 324 and an expandable member 326. The expandable member 326 includes a node 328 which is operably coupled to an abrading member 330. A guide rod 332 is located within the inner bore 334 of the conduit 324 and an orifice 336 extends from the inner bore 334 to the outer surface of the conduit 324. The intervertebral tissue removal system 320 also includes a collection tube 336.

The conduit 324 in this embodiment is made of a flexible material. Accordingly, the conduit 324 may be bent or twisted. The conduit 324 is not, however, radially flexible. Thus, as pressure in the inner bore 334 increased, the volume of the inner bore 334 does not increase appreciably. Accordingly, the guide rod 332 provides the structural rigidity for the conduit 324.

The guide rod 332 in this embodiment is constructed of an inherent memory metal such as nitinol, commercially available from Memry Corporation of Bethel, Conn. Inherent memory metals are imbued with a “memory” such that the particular shape of a device made from the metal can be “programmed” into the metal so that when a particular external condition is present, the device alters its shape to the programmed shape. The external condition may be thermal or electrical, such as a magnetic field. In this embodiment, the guide rod 332 is configured to maintain a substantially straight configuration at room temperature. When exposed to a higher temperature, however, the guide rod 332 changes to the shape shown in FIG. 44.

The intervertebral tissue removal system 320 is operated much in the same manner as the intervertebral tissue removal system 100 of FIG. 1. The main difference is that in the embodiment of FIGS. 43 and 44, the saline solution which is used to expand the node 328 is provided at a temperature which also causes the guide rod 332 to curve into the shape shown in FIG. 44. Of course, by modifying the temperature of the saline solution, a greater or lesser amount of curvature may be achieved.

Alternatively, the guide rod 332 may be configured to change shape when exposed to body temperature. In further alternative embodiments, the shape of the guide rod may be controlled by a magnetic field or the guide rod may be formed as a bimetallic rod comprising metals with different thermal expansion characteristics. In yet another embodiment, a guide rod may be made from a flexible, shape retaining material which formed to present an angled shape in a relaxed condition. In this embodiment, the guide rod is deformed for insertion within a cannula. As the guide rod exits the cannula, the guide rod attempts to return to the angled shape, thereby providing pressure against tissue, allowing an abrasive member to then loosen the tissue. In any event, once the abrasive member 330 is in the desired position as a function of both the expansion of the node 328 as well as the shape of the guide rod 332, tissue may be loosened to create the desired cavity.

Depending upon the particular configuration, intervertebral tissue removal system components may be made from a variety of materials in addition to the materials identified above. For example, the abrading member may be constructed from stainless steel, titanium, polymers, polyesters, or polyurethanes. The expansion device may be made from rigid or compliant materials including stainless steel, titanium, memory metals, silicones, polyesters, polyurethanes, poly ether ether ketone (PEEK) or polypropylenes. Additionally, the materials may be used to deliver chemicals to the area in which a cavity is to be formed. By way of example, but not of limitation, any of the various components may be imbedded or coated with a medication for relieving pain or with an enzyme for dissolving tissue.

While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of exemplary processes and system components, and while the various processes and components have been described in considerable detail, applicant does not intend to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will also readily appear to those ordinarily skilled in the art. The invention in its broadest aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details, implementations, or illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept. 

We claim:
 1. An intervertebral tissue removal system comprising: an intervertebral tissue removal system conduit; a segmented expansion media configured to pass through the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit; and an expandable node comprising a plurality of abrading strands and operably connected to the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit so as to receive the segmented expansion media therein, the expandable node expandable from a first condition whereat the plurality of abrading strands define at least one opening having a first maximum diameter, to an expanded condition whereat the at least one opening has a second maximum diameter larger than the first maximum diameter, wherein the second maximum diameter is less than a minimum diameter of the segmented expansion media, such that insertion of the segmented expansion media through the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit and into the expandable node causes the expandable node to expand from the first condition to the expanded condition.
 2. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of abrading strands define a generally rectangular cross-section.
 3. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of abrading strands define a generally triangular cross-section.
 4. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of abrading strands are formed in a net-like pattern.
 5. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of abrading strands are woven into the net-like pattern.
 6. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 5, wherein: the net-like pattern includes at least one junction of at least two of the plurality of abrading strands; and each of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands is adhered to the other of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands at the at least one junction.
 7. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 5, further comprising: a ribbing member positioned radially outwardly of the plurality of abrading strands when the plurality of abrading strands is in the first condition, the ribbing member defining a plurality of openings through which portions of the plurality of abrading strands extend when the plurality of abrading strands is in the expanded condition.
 8. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of abrading strands are fixedly attached to the ribbing member.
 9. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 7, wherein the expandable node comprises: a first end portion operably connected to the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit; and a second end portion operably connected to a proximal portion of a tip member.
 10. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 9, wherein the tip member comprises: a plurality of cutting edges extending axially from a distal portion of the tip member to the proximal portion of the tip member.
 11. The intervertebral tissue removal system of claim 10, wherein the tip member further comprises: at least one aspiration supply orifice in fluid communication with an aspiration supply conduit extending within the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit.
 12. A method of removing intervertebral tissue, comprising: inserting at least one abrading member for abrading tissue into an area to be cleared; an intervertebral tissue removal system conduit; inserting a segmented expansion media through an intervertebral tissue removal system conduit into an expandable node including a plurality of abrading strands; forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands, thereby expanding the expandable node from a first condition whereat the plurality of abrading strands define at least one opening having a first maximum diameter, to an expanded condition whereat the at least one opening has a second maximum diameter larger than the first maximum diameter, wherein the second maximum diameter is less than a minimum diameter of the segmented expansion media; abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with the expanded expandable node; and removing the abraded tissue from the area to be cleared.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with the expanded expandable node comprises: abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with corner portions of the plurality of abrading strands.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands comprises: forcing the segmented expansion media against a plurality of abrading strands formed in a net-like pattern.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands comprises: forcing the segmented expansion media against a plurality of abrading strands formed in a net-like pattern including at least one junction of at least two of the plurality of abrading strands, wherein each of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands is adhered to the other of the at least two of the plurality of abrading strands at the at least one junction.
 16. The method of claim 14, wherein forcing the segmented expansion media against the plurality of abrading strands comprises: forcing portions of the plurality of abrading strands radially outwardly through a plurality of openings in a ribbing member.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein inserting at least one abrading member comprises: inserting a tip member having a proximal portion operably connected to an end portion of the expandable node into the area to be cleared.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: abrading tissue in the area to be cleared with a plurality of cutting edges extending axially from a distal portion of the tip member to the proximal portion of the tip member.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: aspirating the area to be cleared with aspiration fluid provided through at least one aspiration supply orifice in the tip member which is in fluid communication with an aspiration supply conduit extending within the intervertebral tissue removal system conduit. 